As global environmental concerns grow, we are seeing more and more recommendations on how to contribute to a healthier environment. You can start small by using your own shopping bags from home instead of new plastic bags from the store, using public transportation more often, or trying to reduce your air conditioning usage

These choices are often seen as our sacrifices for the sake of the planet’s sustainability. However, what if an eco-friendly lifestyle also makes our personal life better? A recent psychology study entitled “Pro-environmental behavior to improve quality of life with social value orientation as a moderator: findings from Indonesia” suggests that eco-friendly habits are not only beneficial for the environment but can also significantly impact quality of life.

Researchers from Padjadjaran University and Jenderal Achmad Yani University surveyed 402 psychology students about their habits or lifestyles related to the environment, well-being, and overall satisfaction. The study measured pro-environmental behaviors (PEB) (such as energy saving behavior, recycling, choosing eco-friendly products, and engaging in environmental activities). The study also measured quality of life (QoL) across four dimensions: physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and the environment. Results showed that students who reported more eco-friendly behaviors tended to rate their quality of life higher.

Social Values Orientation Matter

This study also examined social value orientation (SVO), which determines whether someone is more likely to be prosocial (prioritizing the common interest) or pro-self (prioritizing self-interest). SVO proved to be a significant factor. Social value orientation can influence how pro-environmental behavior is linked with a good quality of life. Students with a prosocial orientation tend to report a better quality of life than those with a pro-self orientation. While both orientations experience benefits from pro-environmental behavior, those motivated by concern for others report greater life satisfaction when engaging in eco-friendly actions.

Key lessons

These findings clearly demonstrate that caring for others and the environment are not merely virtues, but also ways we enrich our lives. This means that the environment, both physical and social, cannot be separated from our quality of life; the two are interconnected. This study can serve as a reminder that small choices like carrying a reusable bag or switching off unused electronic devices are more than just acts of environmental responsibility. These actions can also be seen as ways to demonstrate how much we care about others as well as our own lives.

This article is based on the research from:

Purnama, C. Y., Srisayekti, W., Fitriana, E., & Djunaidi, A. (2024). Pro-environmental behavior to improve the quality of life with social value orientation as moderator: findings from Indonesia. International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 35(3), 819–838. https://doi.org/10.1080/09603123.2024.2415902